What causes postpartum depression?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

Postpartum depression may be caused by hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, perinatal mood disorders, anxiety disorders, hypothyroidism, etc., and can be improved through emotional regulation, adequate rest, medication, and other treatments. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks or are accompanied by thoughts of self-harm, prompt medical attention is necessary. After childbirth, estrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply.

Postpartum depression may be caused by hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, perinatal mood disorders, anxiety disorders, hypothyroidism, and other factors. It can be improved through emotional regulation, adequate rest, and medication. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks or are accompanied by thoughts of self-harm, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Hormonal fluctuations: After childbirth, estrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply, affecting neurotransmitter secretion and leading to low mood and irritability. It is recommended that family members provide companionship and support, while mothers regulate their emotions through listening to soothing music and engaging in light physical activity.

2. Sleep deprivation: Caring for a newborn often leads to chronic fragmented sleep, causing physical and mental exhaustion and resulting in emotional issues such as fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Family members should share childcare responsibilities, allowing the mother to catch up on sleep whenever possible and avoid excessive fatigue.

3. Perinatal mood disorders: Psychological imbalance from pregnancy through the postpartum period may lead to persistent depression, loss of interest, changes in appetite, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness. Patients may take medications such as paroxetine tablets, venlafaxine extended-release capsules, or mirtazapine tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

4. Anxiety disorder: The transition to motherhood and accumulated stress from childcare responsibilities can trigger anxiety, manifesting as persistent worry, palpitations, and insomnia, which may worsen depressive symptoms. Under a doctor’s supervision, patients may use sertraline tablets, fluoxetine dispersible tablets, or escitalopram oxalate tablets to manage symptoms.

5. Hypothyroidism: Postpartum thyroid dysfunction with insufficient hormone production slows metabolism, leading to low mood, cold intolerance, and fatigue. It is recommended to take levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or liothyronine sodium tablets under a doctor's guidance to relieve symptoms.

Mothers should maintain regular meals, consume sufficient high-quality protein, vegetables, and fruits, engage in moderate gentle exercise, communicate openly with family members to release psychological stress, and foster a warm, harmonious environment for parenting.

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How to treat postpartum depression effectively

In general, postpartum depression may be caused by factors such as genetic predisposition, physiological stress responses, neurotransmitter imbalances, malnutrition, and abnormalities in brain structure and function. It can be treated or alleviated with general treatment, psychotherapy, medication, and other approaches depending on the specific circumstances. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance.

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How to treat postpartum depression

In general, postpartum depression may be caused by factors such as hormonal changes, lack of sleep, stress and anxiety, malnutrition, and abnormalities in brain structure and function. Depending on the individual case, general treatment, psychotherapy, or medication may be used to treat or alleviate symptoms. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance.

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What should I do if I have postpartum depression?

In general, postpartum depression may be caused by factors such as insufficient social support, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, endocrine disorders, and abnormal brain structure and function. Depending on the specific situation, general treatment, psychotherapy, or medication may be used to treat or alleviate the condition. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance.

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How should postpartum depression be treated?

In general, postpartum depression may be caused by a variety of factors including psychosocial factors, sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, malnutrition, and abnormalities in brain structure and function. It can be treated or alleviated with general treatment, psychotherapy, medication, or other approaches, depending on the individual circumstances. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, determine the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance.